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How Much Do Commissioned Artist Make?

How much do commissioned artist make? Discover the average salary, base salary, and compensation for commissioned artist in the arts, media & entertainment category. Learn about commissioned artist pay per hour, per week, per month, and per annum with detailed salary ranges from $40,000 to $60,000.

Base Salary (avg)
$60,000
Per Hour
$29/hr
Avg Bonus
$10,000
Job Outlook
10.11%
Experience
5 yrs

How Much Do Commissioned Artist Make? Complete Salary Guide

How much do commissioned artist make? This is one of the most common questions in career planning. Commissioned Artist in the Arts, Media & Entertainment field can expect to earn an average salary of $60,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $40,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $60,000 annually.

When breaking down the average salary of commissioned artist by time periods, commissioned artist typically make around $5,000 per month and approximately $1,153.846 per week. The basic salary of commissioned artist varies significantly based on experience level, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level commissioned artist typically start with a base salary of $40,000, while mid-career professionals earn an average of $50,000, and senior-level roles can command salaries exceeding $60,000.

The salary landscape for commissioned artist is influenced by several key factors including geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and specific industry demands. How much do commissioned artist make in a week? On average, this translates to approximately $1,153.846 per week. How much do commissioned artist make per annum? The annual salary range spans from $30,000 to $100,000, with the median salary sitting at $60,000. Additionally, many commissioned artist receive bonuses averaging $10,000 annually, representing approximately 15.25% of their base salary.

How Much Do Commissioned Artist Get Paid Per Annum? Commissioned Artist Salary

Annual salary data for commissioned artist across different experience levels, showing entry-level, mid-career, and experienced professional compensation ranges based on industry standards.

Entry Level Annual Salary

$40,000
Range: $30,000 - $50,000

Mid-Career Annual Salary

$50,000
Range: $50,000 - $75,000

Experienced Annual Salary

$60,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000

How Much Do Commissioned Artist Get Paid in a Month? Commissioned Artist Monthly Salary

Monthly salary breakdowns for commissioned artist at different career stages, providing practical budgeting insights and compensation expectations for financial planning.

Entry Level Monthly Salary

$3,333
per month

Mid-Career Monthly Salary

$4,167
per month

Experienced Monthly Salary

$5,000
per month

How Much Do Commissioned Artist Get Paid in Different Locations?

Geographic salary variations for commissioned artist across different cities and regions, including cost of living adjustments and regional market demand factors that impact compensation.

Austin
$70,000
Range: $45,000 - $95,000
Remote
$75,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000
Seattle
$80,000
Range: $52,000 - $105,000
New York
$90,000
Range: $60,000 - $120,000
San Francisco
$85,000
Range: $55,000 - $110,000

Commissioned Artist Salary Trends

Historical salary progression for commissioned artist over the past years, showing year-over-year compensation growth and market trends in the industry.

Commissioned Artist Salary Trends (2020 - 2025)

Bonus & Compensation Package

Additional compensation beyond base salary, including bonuses, commissions, and overtime opportunities that contribute to total annual earnings.

Bonus Percentage

15.25%

of annual salary

Bonuses for commissioned artists are usually based on sales performance, project completion, or exceeding set targets, incentivizing creativity and productivity.

Average Bonus

$10,000

annually

Commission

A Commissioned Artist role often includes commission opportunities, allowing artists to earn additional income based on the sales or projects they complete for clients.

Overtime

Overtime pay is generally uncommon for commissioned artists, as they often work on a project basis and set their own hours without standard hourly wages.

Employee Benefits Package

Comprehensive benefits and perks provided to employees, including health coverage, retirement plans, time off policies, and professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits

Typical benefits for a commissioned artist may include health insurance, retirement plans like a 401(k), paid time off (PTO), flexible work hours, professional development opportunities, and access to art supplies or studio space.

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans
Development

Commissioned Artist Job Overview

Comprehensive details about the commissioned artist role including daily responsibilities, work environment, physical demands, and key tasks that define this career path.

About This Role

A Commissioned Artist creates custom artwork based on client specifications, blending creativity with personal vision. They collaborate closely with clients to understand their desires, translating ideas into unique pieces. This role demands artistic skill, communication, and adaptability, allowing artists to express individuality while meeting specific requests and enhancing clients' spaces.

Primary Responsibilities

Creating original artwork, collaborating with clients to understand their vision, managing project timelines and deadlines, pricing and negotiating contracts, delivering artwork in specified formats, maintaining communication throughout the project, adapting styles to meet client needs, promoting personal brand and portfolio, handling logistics of shipping or installation, receiving feedback and making revisions as necessary.

Day-to-Day Tasks

A commissioned artist typically spends their day sketching concepts, meeting clients to discuss ideas, creating artwork, managing social media, sourcing materials, and promoting their work to attract new commissions.

Work Environment

Hybrid

Commissioned artists often work in studios or home offices, balancing creative freedom with client deadlines and project specifications.

Physical Demands

Moderate

Commissioned Artists often work in studios or remote settings, requiring fine motor skills, stamina for long hours, and the ability to meet client deadlines.

Commissioned Artist Requirements & Prerequisites

Essential qualifications and credentials needed to pursue a career as a commissioned artist, including educational background, certifications, and experience requirements.

Education

Typically, a Bachelor’s degree is required for a Commissioned Artist.

Field: Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Illustration, Art Education, Visual Arts, Animation, Photography, Art History, Interior Design, Fashion Design.

Experience

5 years

Employers seek commissioned artists with a strong portfolio, diverse styles, excellent communication skills, reliability in meeting deadlines, and the ability to collaborate effectively with clients and teams.

Certifications

Business license, Sales tax permit, Copyright registration, Professional liability insurance, Artist's statement or portfolio review.

Required Skills

Creativity, technical drawing skills, painting techniques, time management, communication skills, adaptability, business acumen, marketing knowledge.

Technical Skills

PaintingDrawingSculptingDigital ArtGraphic DesignArtistic Concept DevelopmentColor TheoryPortfolio Development

Soft Skills

CreativityCommunicationCollaborationTime ManagementAdaptabilityProblem-Solving

Commissioned Artist Career Path

Professional progression opportunities for commissioned artist from entry-level to senior management, including typical career advancement timeline and role evolution.

Entry Level

Positions:

Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Concept Artist

Early-career Commissioned Artists create original artwork for clients, collaborating on concepts, managing projects, and honing their style while building a portfolio and professional network.

Mid-Career

Positions:

Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Concept Artist

Mid-career Commissioned Artists create original works, manage client relationships, negotiate contracts, oversee projects, mentor emerging artists, and promote their art through exhibitions and marketing.

Senior Management

Positions:

Art Director, Creative Consultant, Senior Visual Designer.

Senior or management-level commissioned artists oversee project direction, client relations, budget management, artistic vision, team collaboration, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality creative work.

Career Progression Timeline

Timeline: 10 years

A commissioned artist typically starts by building a portfolio and gaining exposure, progressing to larger projects and collaborations, ultimately establishing a recognizable brand and steady clientele.

Commissioned Artist Industry & Growth

Market outlook and growth prospects for commissioned artist, including industry trends, job market demand, and factors influencing career opportunities and advancement.

Job Outlook

10.11% Growth

Faster than average

Projected: 2024–2034

Industry Trends

Increased demand for digital art and NFTs, Growth of online platforms for selling and promoting artwork, Rising importance of social media presence for artist visibility.

Growth Factors

Growing personalization trends, unique art appreciation, social media exposure, support for local artists, and demand for bespoke gifts drive increased interest in commissioned artwork.

Future Opportunities

NFT art, augmented reality installations, personalized 3D printing, sustainable materials, virtual reality experiences, and digital storytelling are emerging niches for commissioned artists.

Commissioned Artist Related Professions

Alternative career paths and similar roles for commissioned artist, including career transitions, related positions, and advancement opportunities within the field.

Similar Roles

IllustratorGraphic DesignerArt DirectorConcept Artist

Career Alternatives

Art DirectorGallery CuratorCreative ConsultantIllustratorProduct Designer

Upgrade Paths

Creative DirectorArt CuratorGallery Manager

Related Entry Roles

Art AssistantGraphic DesignerIllustrator

Commissioned Artist Skills & Development

Essential skills and professional development resources for commissioned artist, including technical abilities, soft skills, recommended courses, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Technical Skills

Digital IllustrationGraphic Design3D ModelingArtistic Software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)AnimationPrintmaking TechniquesColor TheoryPortfolio Development

Soft Skills Needed

CreativityCommunicationTime ManagementCollaborationAdaptability

Recommended Certifications

Certified Professional ArtistDigital Art CertificationFine Arts Degree

Recommended Courses

Professional Skills CourseIndustry Fundamentals

Development Resources

SkillshareUdemyArtStation LearningCreativeLive

Training Timeline

6-12months

Estimated training time

Frequently Asked Questions About Commissioned Artist Salary

Common questions and answers about pursuing a career as a commissioned artist, covering qualifications, salary expectations, career prospects, and practical career guidance.

What qualifications are needed to become a commissioned artist?

A strong portfolio, artistic skills, and often a degree in fine arts or related fields.

How do commissioned artists get paid?

They typically receive payment upfront, upon completion, or through milestones set in the contract.

What is the average salary of a commissioned artist?

Salaries vary widely based on experience, reputation, and project scope; many earn between $30,000 to $100,000 annually.

Is formal education necessary for a commissioned artist?

While not mandatory, formal education can enhance skills and provide networking opportunities.

How can I find clients as a commissioned artist?

Building an online portfolio, networking in art communities, and utilizing social media platforms are effective strategies.

How Much Others Make?

Explore salary data for other professions to compare compensation across different career paths and industries.

Important Disclaimer

Salary information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, education, industry, company size, and other factors. We strive to provide accurate data, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of all information. Please verify with official sources before making career decisions.